[Welcome] [Home] [General Information] [Portfolio of Selected Work: Biomedical] [Academics]

Biomedical: Prototype Micro-Stapler for Ophthalmic Suturing

Client

Acufex Microsurgical, Inc., Norwood, Massachusetts.

Problem

Corneal Suturing is a labor intensive operation. Filament sutures often cause postoperative astigmatism. A system was sought to cut down suturing time and allow the cornea to maintain its ideal optical shape.

Solution

The development of a micro-stapler that allows tiny staples to be implanted with minimum trauma and total control of incision closure. Special Staples were designed for this instrument which can have no anvil. Staples are formed through friction and ejected when finished. Instrument permits to reduce operating time by more than 30% and allow the "tuning" of the suture to shape the cornea as desired by using an operating keratometer. Staples are made of stainless steel and do not relax as a filament sutures, therefore the corneal shape remains unchanged until total healing occurs. Staple magazine is pre-sterilized. Later version has an integral handle. Staples are implanted flush with the corneal epithelium and can be left permanently if so desired.

Picture of the Prototype Micro-Stapler for Ophthalmic Suturing